Benadir Regional Police Commissioner Mahdi Omar Mumin has urged the youth to be responsible on social media, warning that online activity that jeopardizes security or amplifies Al-Shabaab’s message will not be tolerated.
Speaking during a communal iftar in Mogadishu’s Hodan district on Thursday, Mumin highlighted the city’s improved stability and cautioned against actions that could undermine it.
“I tell young people posting online—do not align yourselves with the Khawarij. Spreading their propaganda makes you complicit. A person peacefully breaking their fast in Mogadishu should not disturb the peace of others. Anyone who does so will face consequences—we will detain them,” Mumin stated.
The commissioner reaffirmed the authorities’ commitment to enforcing security measures, emphasizing that aiding extremists—whether through financing or online amplification—will be treated as a serious offense.
“The one funding the Khawarij and the one spreading their messages are equally guilty. We will not allow social media to be used as a tool to embolden terrorists. Mogadishu is more secure than ever, and we will not let anyone destabilize it,” he added.
His remarks come as Somali authorities intensify efforts against individuals accused of threatening national security. Recently, journalist Ali Adan Mumin was arrested and later released in Mogadishu on charges linked to security threats and defaming government officials.
On the same day, the Somali Cabinet also issued a stern warning about the dangers of misinformation and social media misuse. The government declared that those who permit their homes, businesses, or vehicles to be used for criminal activities threatening national security will face legal repercussions.
